Koss QZ77 Noise Reduction Earphones

The main downside to reviewing a noise reduction kit is the constant reminder that the technology is over-hyped and still below par. As a science, noise reduction/cancellation is still work in progress! Take the Koss QZ77, which incorporates both active as well as passive noise reduction. How well does this device deliver in real life? Let’s find out.

Before we begin, let me explain that although noise reduction is essentially similar to noise cancellation, mechanically they work on two very different technologies. While noise reduction is usually passive, with most kits making use of in-ear bud designs to cut the noise and provide the sound closer to your eardrums, noise cancellation comes equipped with gadgetry that deals with anti-waves.

What’s anti-wave/phase? No, it's not sci-fi. Let’s put it this way: it’s a method through which the circuit generates reverse frequencies to counter the original ones. Now that we are all well-equipped to slice the QZ77, let’s not stand on ceremonies!

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The QZ77 come with an in-ear design, with memory foam earplugs to help reduce sound. Memory foam is made from polyurethane and is supposed to have awesome resilience. The purpose is to have it expand (making use of body warmth) and fit the structure of your ear canal, thereby blocking sound effectively. This is how passive noise reduction works.

My first response was to squish it to death, and hope that it jumps back to its original shape. It did, but it took nearly a minute. How well does it work in your ear? It does block out some sound, but not as effectively as (say) the Cresyn in-ear pair.

The QZ77 has a compact contraption mid-way into the long cables. This is what works up the active noise reduction magic.